Best Music Instrument Store

Alamo Music Center

Yes, there are larger stores — loopland big boxes with guitars and amps stacked all the way to the rafters. And, yes, there are funkier, divier places to horse trade for that vintage '73 Strat you always wanted. But there's a reason Alamo Music has stayed in business for nearly 100 years – and why it continues to be a favorite of Current readers. Founder Alfredo Flores Sr.'s grandson Zach Marr helms the business now and longtime CEO Alfred Flores Jr. remains active in local arts organizations and in providing scholarships. Thanks to those deep community ties, la Familia Flores knows how to keep gigging musicians while accommodating hobbyists, school bands and orchestras. From lessons and rentals to financing and repairs, the two-store chain has found a way to keep up with the megastores while staying true to its roots. It's even stayed ahead of the curve by adding online buying tools to its website to help customers narrow down the confusing array of guitars and pianos on the market.